'Expect slimmer and lighter new Apple iPad by April'

In the works? analysts say a new iPad could go into production in the new year

The new version of Apple's iPad is set to be slimmer, lighter and have cameras on its front and back, according to tech firms making its parts.

Suppliers of chips and other technology for the tablet computer were speculating about its new features ahead of production in the new year.

One source said a revamped model would be made in the first quarter of 2011, which would feature cameras on the front and rear. Another source said the new model would be slimmer, lighter and have a better resolution display.

Touchscreen chip designer Wintek, battery maker Simplo Technology and AVY Precision, maker of covers for electronic products, are among suppliers for the next batch of iPads, Reuters reported today.

Camera module makers Genius Electronic Optical and Largan Precision were also starting new supply deals with Apple, two sources said, but neither could confirm for which product the modules were intended.

"It makes sense for these suppliers to begin delivering their goods in February," said Steven Tseng, an analyst at RBS in Taipei. "I think Steve Jobs will announce the new product in January, and we should see the new product hitting shops in about April."

All the people familiar with the supply chain situation declined to be named because they were not authorised to speak to the media on the topic and because of Apple's obsession with secrecy.

All five companies either declined to comment or could not immediately be contacted. An Apple spokeswoman also declined to comment.

Component makers generally do not know what a finished product will look like or what software it will run on because they are only responsible for manufacturing one part before passing it on for assembly.

Apple is expected to ship 12.9 million iPads this year, rising to 36.5 million in 2011, according to research firm iSuppli, with an 84% share of the tablet PC market.

Other tech brands such as Dell, Acer and BlackBerry maker Research in Motion have all unveiled their own versions of the mobile device.

"I expect to see more tablet PCs being pushed out in the second half of next year," said Bamboo Lin, an analyst at SinoPac Securities in Taipei.

"Sales of the iPad will still be good next year, but I expect those running on Google's Android system to have the advantage in the long run, just like what's happening with smartphones now."